Photo essay: Norfolk children explore, learn and play during first days of school

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

A line-up of new faces, a new desk to make home and a day packed with new experiences has most likely made for some tired eyes at home.

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

Hundreds of four and five year olds dipped their toes into the education waters this week, embarking on their first of 18 years in the classroom.

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

Among them was Prince George, who - with a few more cameras than were at the average school - had his first day at Thomas's Battersea in London.

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

For these children at Horning Community Primary School, it was a more relaxed day - and their new routine is now starting to feel familiar.

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

There's been time to make friends, meet teachers - and, of course, play.

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

But the pupils have also been busy practicing their letters, drawing, crafting and exploring the great outdoors.

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

And with the autumnal weather still warm, the class has been making the most of the school's outdoor playground.

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

Headteacher Chris Aitken, who is also headteacher at Cantley Primary School, said: 'All of our new reception children, in both schools, have settled really well and are enjoying exploring their new classes. We have lots of smiles and inquisitive children, which is all we ask for at this point and are delighted with their start.'

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

First day at school for pupils in the reception class at Horning Community Primary School. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)